Hundreds of people gathered at the Alachua County Criminal Courthouse today for the historical renaming to honor the late Judge Stephan P. Mickle Sr.

The unveiling of the name was a sentimental moment for those who knew the honorable Stephan Mickle, who passed away nearly a year ago.

His oldest daughter, Stephanie Mickle said she was honored. "Obviously I miss him every single day, but I'm so happy. This is such a wonderful occasion for the community, for the state, for so many people,' she said.

Judge Mickle was the first African-American to get an undergrad degree from the University of Florida, and he went on to become the first African-American County Court judge in Alachua County and with many other firsts he eventually became the first African-American U.S. District Court Judge in the history of the U.S. Northern District of Florida, but to Stephanie he was dad. “My dad was a gentleman. He was very kind and had a great sense of humor. He loved to laugh, loved to tell jokes, loved to smile, he had a big, beautiful beaming smile," she said.

Family members, colleagues and County leaders shared their fondest memories of the man they affectionately call “The Judge.”

Midori Lowry said she worked as Mr. Mickle’s law clerk for 16 years. "For Judge Mickle to get this recognition at the courthouse in his hometown is amazing," said Lowry.

His wife Evelyn Mickle spoke at the podium saying she hopes his accomplishments will spark hope in everyone.